It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic retreat than the Palm Island resort, described as being cocooned in a magical world where the sun always shines, and the noise of the outside world is silenced. It’s accessible only by boat, and as you step off at the dock you are greeted by the staff with a welcome cocktail. You immediately start to enjoy the sense of safety and freedom that comes from being on a private island, with no cars, allowing you to relax and let your children roam freely.

This resort has only 43 rooms — beach-front cottages, palm-view cottages, plantation suites in two-storey buildings, and island lofts, which are individual wooden cottages, plus two villas offering total privacy. There is a TV and Internet lounge in the hotel lobby, but the rooms have no TV, telephone or Internet connection, and signs saying “Sshhh” hang from the palm trees around the cottages. You can dine at the elegant Royal Palm Restaurant or eat casually at the Sunset Grill on the beach, but to make the most of the peace, you may prefer a romantic picnic at one of four secluded picnic sites, or to celebrate a special occasion with a unique private dining experience on the beach.